Rehband and SBD knee sleeves are two of the biggest and most popular knee sleeves brands available today. These both knee sleeves have a few similarities, but also pretty big differences from each other.
Rehband and SBD knee sleeves are approved in the IPF and IWF, so they’re a good fit for most of the athletes who want to start competing.
SBD Knee Sleeves vs Rehband Knee Sleeves, which is Better? SBD knee sleeves are better for elite competitive powerlifters (not for beginners), but rehband knee sleeves are more versatile and comfortable and you can wear them for different types of training.
If you’re a serious strength athlete, then you can read the article till the end to know the difference between SBD knee sleeves and rehband knee sleeves, which is better? We are going to take a look at each knee sleeve’s construction and how they perform in competition.
Table of Contents
SBD Knee Sleeves Overview
SBD Knee Sleeves has become popular since 2013, and widely used by powerlifters and strongman competitors. SBD knee sleeves are known for their snug fit and high amount of support.
| Pros | Cons |
| Available in a wide range of sizes | Not available in many colors |
| Standard 30cm length provides more support and coverage | Only recommend to lifters |
| They provide a good bounce out of the hole when squatting, that’s why many lifers like it | 7mm SBD knee sleeves are too compressive to wear |
Rehband Knee Sleeves Overview
Rehband knee sleeves are one of the most popular and recognized knee sleeve brands on the market, especially among CrossFitters and weightlifters. Many competitive powerlifters are using this brand of knee sleeves.
| Pros | Cons |
| Available in a many colors | Sold in single piece |
| Can be worn for HIIT workout and CrossFit Workout | |
| Available in three different levels of thickness (7mm, 5mm, & 3mm) | |
| Great for beginner lifters |
Construction and Materials
Both brands make their knee sleeves out of neoprene, that material is durable, flexible and keeps heat trapped in your body.
SBD Knee Sleeves
These knee sleeves are made from high-grade neoprene and it offers a cylinder-style design.
The SBD knee sleeves offer an additional layer of materials that is diagonal stitching that starts on the top outer edge of the sleeve and cover across the back of the knee, ending at the bottom edge of the inside of the knee, and this helps prevent premature fraying and give you support and offers a high amount of stability.
This knee sleeve itself offers a reinforced hook style stitching throughout and that prevents the seams from fraying.
Rehband knee Sleeves
The Rehband knee sleeves also offer a cylinder-style design and come with a high-grade neoprene. These knee sleeves are made from 70% SBR and 30% neoprene. The cover and lining are made from 100% polyamide (a polyamide material known for its durability and strength).
The main difference between Rehband knee sleeves and other sleeves on the market is that Rehband sleeves have a patented knee sleeves design. This includes how the knee sleeves are physically built and stitched together.
However, all of the stitching on the knee sleeves is reinforced, which makes them less likely to rip, and it can also make them comfortable to squat in.
The Winner: SBD
Both knee sleeves are constructed very well, and both are made from high-quality neoprene and have reinforced stitching for added comfort and durability, so the neoprene is similar in thickness and support.
But the SBD sells a knee sleeve with the added benefit of an antimicrobial lining, so they beat out the rehband knee sleeves.
Sizing and Fit
Knee sleeves should be tight enough to offer support and compression.
SBD Knee Sleeves
The size and fit of the SBD knee sleeves are depending on how you like the knee sleeves to fit overall. On the SBD website, they have a sizing chart that has dimensions for both a standard and tight sit.
These knee sleeves are available in sizes 3XS to 5XL. You can get the best fit and size on their website that works best for you. Some lifters say that they stretch after a month of use. So, whenever you are planning to buy this sleeve, you can consider getting a size smaller if you want the most amount of compression. Also, if you like a more comfortable fit, then you should get your regular size.
Many powerlifters purchase two pairs of SBD knee sleeves, one in a larger size for training purposes and one in a smaller size for competition purposes. Because they want to get the most support in competition.
Rehband Knee Sleeves
The rehband knee sleeves are a bit shorter than the SBD knee sleeves, but still, it provides well support. The rehband knee sleeves are available in sizes for XS to XL.
The rehband knee sleeves span from about the top portion of the calve and extend to about 2 inches on the quad. This may also vary depending on your leg’s length and how you prefer the knee sleeves to fit.
The winner: Tie
The Rehband knee sleeve sizing is more accurate, but also the SBD knee sleeves has more size options. Because of this reason I’m calling a tie between them.
If you’re looking for tighter support, warmth and don’t want to adjust their sleeves often, then go with the Rehband knee sleeves. If you want a lot of support and a very tight sleeve, then go with SBD knee sleeves.
Design
SBD knee Sleeves
These sleeves are patented, but there are less contoured and more cylindrical designs. The openings on the top and bottom of these knee sleeves are the same, and it provides support for larger parts of your leg, but it is harder to get them on and off. It also limits your movement for other exercises.
Rehband Knee Sleeves
The rehband knee sleeves feature a patented anatomical design that conforms to the shape of the knee. The middle of the Rehband knee sleeve is curved which can provide a snug fit around your knee, and it also allows you to move your legs naturally when you’re not squatting.
The rehband knee sleeves at the top have a wider opening than the bottom, which can make it easier to get them on and off.
The winner: Rehband
Both sleeves give you cylindrical designs, but SBD knee sleeves give you support and stability, but it can make you less comfortable. So, Rehband knee sleeves make you more comfortable throughout the duration of your workout.
Thickness
Most powerlifters love knee sleeves that are 7mm thick, and which is the maximum thickness that IPF and USAPL allowed. Both Rehband and SBD knee sleeves have 7mm thickness, and there is also other thickness that serve for different purposes.
SBD Knee sleeves
SBD knee sleeves are only available in 7mm and 5mm and 7mm SBD knee sleeves are most compressive and least flexible. Most weightlifters wear them for heavy squat sets only.
The 5mm SBD knee sleeves have more stretch and it can be useful for cleans and snatches. They also allow for a greater range of motion.
Rehband Knee Sleeves
Rehband knee sleeves are available in 7mm, 5mm, 3mm.
The 7mm sleeves can offer the most compression, but it is not as flexible. It is good for heavy static lifts.
The 5mm knee sleeves are less compressive and have more mobility, and make it a good option for Crossfit and other dynamic workouts. These knee sleeves are good for beginner lifters and you can wear them throughout your workout.
The 3mm knee sleeves gives you the most range of motion, but it doesn’t provide the support that is needed for weightlifting or powerlifting.
The winner: Tie
The Rehband knee sleeves offer 3mm knee sleeves and SBD knee sleeves don’t, but it doesn’t give you any benefits. Both brands offer 7mm and 5mm knee sleeves so it is a bit difficult to announce the winner.
Approved For Competition
If you’re a competitive weightlifter or powerlifter, then your knee sleeves need to be approved for competition. It is important to note that both SBD knee sleeve and Rehband knee sleeves are approved by IWF and IPF, which are two of the bigger federations in powerlifting and weightlifting.
- SBD knee sleeves are approved by the IPF, IWF, USAPL and USPA.
- Rehband knee sleeves are approved by the IPF, IWF and USAPL, but not for the USPA.
Price
If you’re a powerlifter or weightlifter, investing in a pair of knee sleeves is worth it. Purchasing higher-priced (SBD or Rehband) knee sleeves tend to be more durable, and you will save more money in the long run by not having to replace them every month.
These both SBD AND Rehband knee sleeves are a bit more expensive due to their ability, durability, support, flexibility and approved in multiple bigger federations.
| Brand | Price |
| SBD Knee Sleeves | $82.50 |
| Rehband Knee Sleeves | $44.99 per single Sleeve, $89.95 |
SBD Knee Sleeves vs Rehband Knee Sleeves
If you still have trouble deciding between SBD and Rehband knee sleeves, then below are some points.
SBD Knee Sleeves
- Standard 30cm length: This is the standard length on all SBD knee sleeves.
- Unique fit for the left and right knees: Each sleeve is designed to specifically fit the right or left knee. While most other knee sleeves can be worn on either side of the knee.
- Many size options: These knee sleeves are available in many sizes from 3XS to 5XL. This wide range in size, you can get knee sleeves that fit better.
Rehband Knee Sleeves
- Available in 3 different thickness: you can find a knee sleeve that works best for you.
- Patented anatomical design: these knee sleeves aren’t just angularly shaped, but they are contoured to the shape of the knee. This will provide more compression and help them to stay in place.
Conclusion
SBD knee sleeves and Rehband knee sleeves are solid gear when it comes to performance, durability and support.
If you’re competing in powerlifting then SBD knee sleeves are a better choice. If you’re competing in weightlifting and need a supportive and mobile sleeve, then consider Rehband knee sleeves are better for you.
Hopefully, you like this article, if you have any questions and suggestions kindly put them in the comment box below.
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